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Hawthorne House #2
An Elegant Facade
Lady Georgina Hawthorne has worked tirelessly to seal her place as the Incomparable for her debut season. At her first London ball, she hopes to snag the attention of an earl. With money and business connections, but without impeccable bloodlines, Colin McCrae is invited everywhere but accepted nowhere. When he first encounters the fashionable Lady Georgina, he's irritated by his attraction to a woman who concerns herself only with status and appearance. What Colin doesn't know is that Georgina's desperate social aspirations are driven by the shameful secret she harbors. Association with Colin McCrae is not part of Georgina's plan, but as their paths continue to cross, they both must decide if the realization of their dreams is worth the sacrifices they must make.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published July 1, 2016
280 people are currently reading
2272 people want to read
About the author
Kristi Ann Hunter
24 books1,648 followersKristi Ann Hunter graduated from Georgia Tech with a degree in Computer Science but always knew she wanted to write. Kristi is an RWA Golden Heart contest winner, an ACFW Genesis contest winner, and a Georgia Romance Writers Maggie Award for Excellence winner. She lives with her husband and three children in Georgia. Find her online at www.kristiannhunter.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 719 reviews
August 4, 2018
4.5/Me ha encantado, y en mayúsculas. Y sin duda seguiré con la serie ;) Me gusta mucho la pluma de esta autora, cómo retrata la época de Jane Austen y crítica la hipocresía de la alta sociedad. Es verdad que en esta ocasión la protagonista es un tanto soberbia, pero tiene un buen motivo para serlo y, con todo, me han encantado sus desavenencias con el protagonista. Y, supongo, debo decir que el tema religioso está muy presente en este volumen pero no es algo que me moleste.
February 10, 2017
When I first visited Hawthorne House in A Noble Masquerade, I was enchanted with Miranda’s story. I loved Miranda, her brother Griffith, Duke of Riverton, and even the small glimpse of Trent made me smile. And then there’s Georgina. Snooty, standoffish Georgina. I picked up An Elegant Façade with trepidation because, quite honestly, Georgina left a lot to be desired as a main character. Despite still not loving her at the beginning of the story, and the overlap of some events from book one, I ended up liking this book even better than its predecessor!
Sometimes when an author takes a chance, it can pay off in a big way. In this case, Kristi made several bold decisions in her writing, and they all paid off for this reader! While not the most compelling part of the story, in my opinion, the overlapping of scenes from book one added a fresh perspective to those events. Georgina’s perspective on these events is very telling in terms of her character, specifically her insecurities. Without some of these scenes, I don’t think readers would have seen quite the extent that she was willing to go in order to keep her secret. Likewise, the same can be said of Colin’s character. He seems a bit random in book one, but in book two, learning more about his friendship with Ryland, he appearance at the infamous ball when the mysterious Duke of Marshington presents himself to society again.
I’ll just go ahead and say it – I didn’t like Georgina one bit at the opening of the story. The fact that Kristi won me over to root for Georgina had a lot to do with how much I ended up loving this novel. Georgina appears to be selfish and shallow, but it’s all an act. It was impressive to me that, while I didn’t agree with Georgina’s choices, I could empathize with her and understand the motivation behind her decisions. It was almost artful how the layers of her character were peeled away, until it was like a sigh of relief to meet her true self. I ended up loving her by the story’s end. I doubt I would have appreciated the ending of the story had she not gone through such a trying transformation.
The other intriguing thing to me is the nature of secret of Georgina’s secret. It’s not something I’ve ever seen discussed in historical fiction before, and I hadn’t ever considered the implications of a reading disability for a lady of that time period. Readers might say, what’s the big deal? Well, during that time, for a lady running the house, it would have been a very big deal. Perhaps the way Georgina was able to hide it for so long pushes the bounds of imagination at some points, but overall I thought it was handled in a realistic way and feels true to the time period of the story.
And, of course, I have to mention Colin again! Colin is one of the most endearing male leads that I’ve read this year and not nearly as “odious” as Georgina believes him to be. I actually prefer him to Ryland from the first book – no judging! I just prefer a male lead with as little pretense as possible and not one that is too calculating in his relationships. He is such an all-around respectable and kind hero, one that didn’t allow Georgina to keep up her façade in front of him, one that demanded her secret not be between them, but also never pressured her to reveal it, even to his own detriment. I just really admired him – perhaps his being from Scotland had something to do with my initial fascination – that and his enviable head of hair – but truly the quality of his character quickly won me over.
The plot is entertaining and kept me interested the entire time – whether it was a clandestine rescue of Georgina’s besotted friend or a societal event, there were moments both poignant and humorous. The interactions of Georgina and Colin and the secondary characters in the story, Ryland and Miranda, Griffith and especially Trent, are one of my favorite things about the story. I love when characters from previous and books-to-come appear in a story – I’m really eager to read Trent’s story next. The world in this story is so well-presented that I truly thought there were many characters who have their own story; they just came to life for me and will remain that way beyond the pages of this book. I’m already eager to see them all again in book three.
Sometimes when an author takes a chance, it can pay off in a big way. In this case, Kristi made several bold decisions in her writing, and they all paid off for this reader! While not the most compelling part of the story, in my opinion, the overlapping of scenes from book one added a fresh perspective to those events. Georgina’s perspective on these events is very telling in terms of her character, specifically her insecurities. Without some of these scenes, I don’t think readers would have seen quite the extent that she was willing to go in order to keep her secret. Likewise, the same can be said of Colin’s character. He seems a bit random in book one, but in book two, learning more about his friendship with Ryland, he appearance at the infamous ball when the mysterious Duke of Marshington presents himself to society again.
I’ll just go ahead and say it – I didn’t like Georgina one bit at the opening of the story. The fact that Kristi won me over to root for Georgina had a lot to do with how much I ended up loving this novel. Georgina appears to be selfish and shallow, but it’s all an act. It was impressive to me that, while I didn’t agree with Georgina’s choices, I could empathize with her and understand the motivation behind her decisions. It was almost artful how the layers of her character were peeled away, until it was like a sigh of relief to meet her true self. I ended up loving her by the story’s end. I doubt I would have appreciated the ending of the story had she not gone through such a trying transformation.
The other intriguing thing to me is the nature of secret of Georgina’s secret. It’s not something I’ve ever seen discussed in historical fiction before, and I hadn’t ever considered the implications of a reading disability for a lady of that time period. Readers might say, what’s the big deal? Well, during that time, for a lady running the house, it would have been a very big deal. Perhaps the way Georgina was able to hide it for so long pushes the bounds of imagination at some points, but overall I thought it was handled in a realistic way and feels true to the time period of the story.
And, of course, I have to mention Colin again! Colin is one of the most endearing male leads that I’ve read this year and not nearly as “odious” as Georgina believes him to be. I actually prefer him to Ryland from the first book – no judging! I just prefer a male lead with as little pretense as possible and not one that is too calculating in his relationships. He is such an all-around respectable and kind hero, one that didn’t allow Georgina to keep up her façade in front of him, one that demanded her secret not be between them, but also never pressured her to reveal it, even to his own detriment. I just really admired him – perhaps his being from Scotland had something to do with my initial fascination – that and his enviable head of hair – but truly the quality of his character quickly won me over.
The plot is entertaining and kept me interested the entire time – whether it was a clandestine rescue of Georgina’s besotted friend or a societal event, there were moments both poignant and humorous. The interactions of Georgina and Colin and the secondary characters in the story, Ryland and Miranda, Griffith and especially Trent, are one of my favorite things about the story. I love when characters from previous and books-to-come appear in a story – I’m really eager to read Trent’s story next. The world in this story is so well-presented that I truly thought there were many characters who have their own story; they just came to life for me and will remain that way beyond the pages of this book. I’m already eager to see them all again in book three.
April 28, 2018
Firstly for those people (like me) who disliked Georgina from book 1, don't give this book a miss because of your annoyance with her. We get to see Georgina's viewpoint in this book, so yes it does explain a lot of her behaviour.
Unlike book 1 which has a fun, tender romance developing, this book doesn't really have much of a romance. It's mostly about Georgina's struggles and how she tries to make the best of her unfavorable situation. She's growing desperate with each passing day.
What struck me most weird about the story is that...why would Georgina go to just extreme levels to hide the truth from her family? They are a close knit, warm, supportive family (as repeatedly mentioned throughout the story). So I found no reason for it. So can't say i loved it as much as book 1.
Unlike book 1 which has a fun, tender romance developing, this book doesn't really have much of a romance. It's mostly about Georgina's struggles and how she tries to make the best of her unfavorable situation. She's growing desperate with each passing day.
What struck me most weird about the story is that...why would Georgina go to just extreme levels to hide the truth from her family? They are a close knit, warm, supportive family (as repeatedly mentioned throughout the story). So I found no reason for it. So can't say i loved it as much as book 1.
February 16, 2018
Reseña completa: http://masromance.blogspot.com.es/201...
En realidad no me ha gustado. Pero es por algo muy personal y por eso le doy las 2 sino sería 1
No quiero que de la impresión de que es una mala novela porque no lo es. Es un gran tópico sí. Pero no está mal escrita y tiene un ritmo ágil. Predecible pero te anima a seguir leyendo. El problema ha sido otro
Esta novela entra dentro del subgénero romance cristiano, que para mí no tiene nada que ver con las novelas blancas. No. Aquí hay dios y biblia de por medio y, si fuera necesario, lo aceptaría. Por ejemplo, que él fuera un reverendo o ella monja, o hermana o algo así. Pero no. Aquí la solución de todo viene dada por las palabras de la biblia y por ahí no paso.
Esto es un tema que puede no molestar a un lector, así que adelante. Como digo, no está mal escrito, pero a mí me repatea y me saca de la historia leer cómo una protagonista se pregunta si su problema puede ser un castigo divino; o que el protagonista, cada vez que tiene que tomar una decisión, eche mano de la palabra de dios. Y al principio no se nota mucho que cada vez va a más.
Por lo demás y si esto no es importante o relevante diré que la trama no es original pero no está mal. La típica borde porque tiene un problema que conoce a la horma de su zapato y que al final, por un salto de fe, acaban locamente enamorados .
Por que si quitamos la primera mitad del libro en la que la pareja anterior es la que lleva el peso de las escenas y la relación (en mi opinión más de amistad que de otra cosa) que he visto en la pareja, de romance queda poco. No he visto chispas, no he visto pasión refrenada, tan solo complicidad y una buena amistad, pero ¿amor? a mí no me lo ha parecido.
Como digo es algo muy personal. Yo por dichos motivos no creo que lea más a esta autora, no porque sea mala sino por que no me gusta el subgénero que escribe, al igual por ejemplo que no leo paranormal.
Es cuestión de gustos personales.
En realidad no me ha gustado. Pero es por algo muy personal y por eso le doy las 2 sino sería 1
No quiero que de la impresión de que es una mala novela porque no lo es. Es un gran tópico sí. Pero no está mal escrita y tiene un ritmo ágil. Predecible pero te anima a seguir leyendo. El problema ha sido otro
Esta novela entra dentro del subgénero romance cristiano, que para mí no tiene nada que ver con las novelas blancas. No. Aquí hay dios y biblia de por medio y, si fuera necesario, lo aceptaría. Por ejemplo, que él fuera un reverendo o ella monja, o hermana o algo así. Pero no. Aquí la solución de todo viene dada por las palabras de la biblia y por ahí no paso.
Esto es un tema que puede no molestar a un lector, así que adelante. Como digo, no está mal escrito, pero a mí me repatea y me saca de la historia leer cómo una protagonista se pregunta si su problema puede ser un castigo divino; o que el protagonista, cada vez que tiene que tomar una decisión, eche mano de la palabra de dios. Y al principio no se nota mucho que cada vez va a más.
Por lo demás y si esto no es importante o relevante diré que la trama no es original pero no está mal. La típica borde porque tiene un problema que conoce a la horma de su zapato y que al final, por un salto de fe, acaban locamente enamorados .
Por que si quitamos la primera mitad del libro en la que la pareja anterior es la que lleva el peso de las escenas y la relación (en mi opinión más de amistad que de otra cosa) que he visto en la pareja, de romance queda poco. No he visto chispas, no he visto pasión refrenada, tan solo complicidad y una buena amistad, pero ¿amor? a mí no me lo ha parecido.
Como digo es algo muy personal. Yo por dichos motivos no creo que lea más a esta autora, no porque sea mala sino por que no me gusta el subgénero que escribe, al igual por ejemplo que no leo paranormal.
Es cuestión de gustos personales.
April 19, 2023
This book brought a new depth to Kristi’s writing that I couldn’t stop reading. Georgina was a fabulous character to read from and Colin was charming and quick-witted, making them the perfect pair.
The faith aspect was amazing too! Georgina’s growth was satisfying and inspiring.
The same wit as the first book is here too!
Oh another thing I loved was that we got to see scenes from A Noble Masquerade from Georgina and Colin’s perspective and I loved that!!!
Definitely recommend and can’t wait to read more!
The faith aspect was amazing too! Georgina’s growth was satisfying and inspiring.
The same wit as the first book is here too!
Oh another thing I loved was that we got to see scenes from A Noble Masquerade from Georgina and Colin’s perspective and I loved that!!!
Definitely recommend and can’t wait to read more!
April 13, 2017
I really enjoyed this one, I only wish I had read it right after finishing A Noble Masquerade. While this one could probably stand on its own, the story actually overlaps with the first book. The first half or so of An Elegant Façade actually takes place during Noble Masquerade, only told from the POV of Georgiana and Colin. It was definitely fun seeing things unfold from their points of view and was handled very well. It still felt like its own story entirely, but I would still suggest reading the books in order.
Georgiana was a very interesting character, I can see why she may rub some people the wrong way. She is very calculating and can come across cold. She is really just hiding being fear and insecurities and has convinced herself that she has to marry this season or her secret will come out. She's put an extreme amount of pressure on herself. She can only marry a titled gentleman who has good standing in society. Her brothers interfering friend, Colin McCrae, has no title and therefore no standing in society. But they are continually crossing paths and the more they are together the more Georgiana's façade starts to crumble.
I loved the character development of Georgiana. It's actually refreshing to read a regency heroine who isn't practically perfect in every way. She's pretty close on the outside, but struggles with real insecurities. Colin was a great hero, I loved his POV and how he treats Georgiana. He really stole the book and you'll want to keep reading for him, even if Georgiana rubs you the wrong way. Ha! I also enjoyed Colin's backstory and thought it added a lot to his character and the overall story. I especially love the times when their together, those are my favorite parts.
Overall, this was a charming regency. Really kept me engaged and wanting to see how things would unfold. I actually enjoyed how it overlapped with the first book, it was fun seeing those characters from a different perspective, but also loved when they faded and the book become more its own. I did wish to see the aftermath of when Georgiana reveals her secret to her family, we get to see some, but there was so much build up to it I would have loved to see more of how they handled everything. Anyway, I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to reading the next one! Great series.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Mild, mostly a little at the end. Kind of slowed the story down a bit in my opinion, but was very mild.
Series: Hawthorne House, Book Two
Source: Review copy
Georgiana was a very interesting character, I can see why she may rub some people the wrong way. She is very calculating and can come across cold. She is really just hiding being fear and insecurities and has convinced herself that she has to marry this season or her secret will come out. She's put an extreme amount of pressure on herself. She can only marry a titled gentleman who has good standing in society. Her brothers interfering friend, Colin McCrae, has no title and therefore no standing in society. But they are continually crossing paths and the more they are together the more Georgiana's façade starts to crumble.
I loved the character development of Georgiana. It's actually refreshing to read a regency heroine who isn't practically perfect in every way. She's pretty close on the outside, but struggles with real insecurities. Colin was a great hero, I loved his POV and how he treats Georgiana. He really stole the book and you'll want to keep reading for him, even if Georgiana rubs you the wrong way. Ha! I also enjoyed Colin's backstory and thought it added a lot to his character and the overall story. I especially love the times when their together, those are my favorite parts.
Overall, this was a charming regency. Really kept me engaged and wanting to see how things would unfold. I actually enjoyed how it overlapped with the first book, it was fun seeing those characters from a different perspective, but also loved when they faded and the book become more its own. I did wish to see the aftermath of when Georgiana reveals her secret to her family, we get to see some, but there was so much build up to it I would have loved to see more of how they handled everything. Anyway, I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to reading the next one! Great series.
Content
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: None
Religious: Mild, mostly a little at the end. Kind of slowed the story down a bit in my opinion, but was very mild.
Series: Hawthorne House, Book Two
Source: Review copy
February 5, 2017
Oh my heavens, I loved this book, I LOVE this series and I must say that despite my initial feelings and opinions and maybe not so nice thoughts towards Georgina in A Noble Masquerade I have since come to Love her too! I love the Hawthorne family and all of their ups and downs and just their family dynamics.
Now this is book two and although you probably could read it before A Noble Masquerade, I really recommend reading it in order. An Elegant Facade picks up about midway through a NM but from the viewpoint of Georgina. It continues past the end of NM and I love that we got to read more about Miranda and Ryland past book one. Oh, so good! If you can't tell, I LOVED IT!!! Hee Hee! The other reason I suggest reading them in order is that you will have a major spoiler to book one if you don't. Yep, the bad guy from book one is revealed in the middle of Facade, so if you don't want to know, definitely read them in order.
I think I got my point across about reading them in order right? Ok, one more, if you don't mind about spoilers and really want to read Facade first, I guess it's alright, it'll work as a stand alone and you will have some surprise in store for you between both Georgina and Miranda's stories. ;-)
This book is titled so appropriately and the cover fits Lady Georgina's personality and choices perfectly. Not going to explain why, you'll have to read to discover it. Most regency books I've read, or any period book with young ladies having their debut season, usually isn't done from the POV of a character who is calculating and manipulative and is determined to be the best and make the best match. So that was a fun new perspective to read from in this book.
Lady Georgina has a secret...
Shhhhh...
Don't tell anyone, if they found out it might ruin everything she has planned for years and then she will be ruined and left to make a match with someone lesser than a titled Lord. I won't tell you the secret but I will say that it isn't something scandalous. It isn't outright said what her secret is until later on in the book, but I think you'll be able to figure it out soon enough. After I realized what it was, I realized there were so many little tidbits inserted into the story that made you realize the author had been subtly hinting at it from the very beginning. Now that'll probably have you looking very closely but you may not figure it out(unless you have read some of the other reviews for the book because there are a few that say what her secret is).
I loved reading further and further into this book and discovering so much more about Lady Georgina, she is a real spitfire character and has so many hidden aspects of her that are slowly revealed as life happens to her family, her friends and even her.
If you've read the first book you will know who Colin is. If you're like me and read the first book a while ago and didn't quite remember who Colin was then you'll remember soon enough as you read along(I think...). If not, he's a friend of Ryland's. As he is trying to help Ryland he becomes acquainted with the Hawthorne family and Georgina. Colin has his own troubles and reasons for leaving Scotland and his family to come to London. As he struggles with his own personal issues, helping Ryland, and running his business, he must also play around whatever games Lady Georgina has in store for everyone. She is so infuriating and rude and calculating and beautiful. Yet he is not titled and will not reach the expectations that she has for marrying but can he stand aside as he watches her align herself with gentleman that he would not allow even his sister to associate with?
There are several adventures throughout this book, physical adventures that the characters must go on, verbal adventures between several characters and mental adventures that the individual characters must face. This book, for me, has such a great cast of characters, old ones that I loved from NM, ones that I didn't quite like from NM, and new ones that rounded out the cast very nicely. I really loved the way Kristi Ann Hunter wove the two stories together to create a very well rounded story.
Lady Georgina has much to decide and discover on her way to matrimony. Does she protect her secret? Does she ruin other's chances at happiness? Does she allow a man to control her and dictate her life? Does she find her own happiness at the cost of her secret or all her well laid plains? Or can she find happiness through her well laid plans?
I believe that the third book is already out(just recently) or coming out very soon. I'm pretty excited for it.
This is definitely a very clean read. There were a couple sweet kisses and one character who prays to God throughout. His prayers aren't written out for us to read, more just a knowledge that he is sending a plea to God for help and guidance. At one point a character is reading the Bible and discussing some verses written therein but I didn't feel that it was preachy or detracted from the story. So if you're not a big Christian fiction fan I still think you would probably enjoy this book. I hope that if you decide to read this series that you get some enjoyment out of it. I know I did and will continue to, it's definitely going to be a reread series for me(in fact I really want to go back and reread A Noble Masquerade-I probably would have already but I've lent it out so when it comes back) :-)
The copy I read was one of my Christmas presents this year-Yay!!!
Happy Reading!!!
Now this is book two and although you probably could read it before A Noble Masquerade, I really recommend reading it in order. An Elegant Facade picks up about midway through a NM but from the viewpoint of Georgina. It continues past the end of NM and I love that we got to read more about Miranda and Ryland past book one. Oh, so good! If you can't tell, I LOVED IT!!! Hee Hee! The other reason I suggest reading them in order is that you will have a major spoiler to book one if you don't. Yep, the bad guy from book one is revealed in the middle of Facade, so if you don't want to know, definitely read them in order.
I think I got my point across about reading them in order right? Ok, one more, if you don't mind about spoilers and really want to read Facade first, I guess it's alright, it'll work as a stand alone and you will have some surprise in store for you between both Georgina and Miranda's stories. ;-)
This book is titled so appropriately and the cover fits Lady Georgina's personality and choices perfectly. Not going to explain why, you'll have to read to discover it. Most regency books I've read, or any period book with young ladies having their debut season, usually isn't done from the POV of a character who is calculating and manipulative and is determined to be the best and make the best match. So that was a fun new perspective to read from in this book.
Lady Georgina has a secret...
Shhhhh...
Don't tell anyone, if they found out it might ruin everything she has planned for years and then she will be ruined and left to make a match with someone lesser than a titled Lord. I won't tell you the secret but I will say that it isn't something scandalous. It isn't outright said what her secret is until later on in the book, but I think you'll be able to figure it out soon enough. After I realized what it was, I realized there were so many little tidbits inserted into the story that made you realize the author had been subtly hinting at it from the very beginning. Now that'll probably have you looking very closely but you may not figure it out(unless you have read some of the other reviews for the book because there are a few that say what her secret is).
I loved reading further and further into this book and discovering so much more about Lady Georgina, she is a real spitfire character and has so many hidden aspects of her that are slowly revealed as life happens to her family, her friends and even her.
If you've read the first book you will know who Colin is. If you're like me and read the first book a while ago and didn't quite remember who Colin was then you'll remember soon enough as you read along(I think...). If not, he's a friend of Ryland's. As he is trying to help Ryland he becomes acquainted with the Hawthorne family and Georgina. Colin has his own troubles and reasons for leaving Scotland and his family to come to London. As he struggles with his own personal issues, helping Ryland, and running his business, he must also play around whatever games Lady Georgina has in store for everyone. She is so infuriating and rude and calculating and beautiful. Yet he is not titled and will not reach the expectations that she has for marrying but can he stand aside as he watches her align herself with gentleman that he would not allow even his sister to associate with?
There are several adventures throughout this book, physical adventures that the characters must go on, verbal adventures between several characters and mental adventures that the individual characters must face. This book, for me, has such a great cast of characters, old ones that I loved from NM, ones that I didn't quite like from NM, and new ones that rounded out the cast very nicely. I really loved the way Kristi Ann Hunter wove the two stories together to create a very well rounded story.
Lady Georgina has much to decide and discover on her way to matrimony. Does she protect her secret? Does she ruin other's chances at happiness? Does she allow a man to control her and dictate her life? Does she find her own happiness at the cost of her secret or all her well laid plains? Or can she find happiness through her well laid plans?
I believe that the third book is already out(just recently) or coming out very soon. I'm pretty excited for it.
This is definitely a very clean read. There were a couple sweet kisses and one character who prays to God throughout. His prayers aren't written out for us to read, more just a knowledge that he is sending a plea to God for help and guidance. At one point a character is reading the Bible and discussing some verses written therein but I didn't feel that it was preachy or detracted from the story. So if you're not a big Christian fiction fan I still think you would probably enjoy this book. I hope that if you decide to read this series that you get some enjoyment out of it. I know I did and will continue to, it's definitely going to be a reread series for me(in fact I really want to go back and reread A Noble Masquerade-I probably would have already but I've lent it out so when it comes back) :-)
The copy I read was one of my Christmas presents this year-Yay!!!
Happy Reading!!!
July 15, 2016
Georgina began as an annoying miss, but slowly grew on me as I read more of her struggles to appear normal in a world where her dyslexia prevents her from appearing at her best. What makes it worse for her is that she's managed to hide behind her maid's cleverness for years, so even her family is unaware of her problems with reading.
I appreciated Colin as a hero. He's the steady sort, or is becoming so; not flashy, but dependable. He began by being honest with Georgina and ended by helping her show her true colors instead of a sham.
It was often humorous, though not nearly as much as the first book was. At the same time, though, this book struck a deeper chord of faith even than the first one did. I really liked the message given near the end of the book.
Note: it's best to read this series in order—I went back to skim through the first book when I was about three chapters into this one when I needed to clarify some of what had happened earlier. I do have to say, I loved the richness given by the overlapping plot—to get Georgina and Colin's POVs on what was going on with Ryland and Miranda was pretty funny!
I appreciated Colin as a hero. He's the steady sort, or is becoming so; not flashy, but dependable. He began by being honest with Georgina and ended by helping her show her true colors instead of a sham.
It was often humorous, though not nearly as much as the first book was. At the same time, though, this book struck a deeper chord of faith even than the first one did. I really liked the message given near the end of the book.
Note: it's best to read this series in order—I went back to skim through the first book when I was about three chapters into this one when I needed to clarify some of what had happened earlier. I do have to say, I loved the richness given by the overlapping plot—to get Georgina and Colin's POVs on what was going on with Ryland and Miranda was pretty funny!
March 4, 2017
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I truly love it when an author can make me genuinely like a character that I previously could barely tolerate.
From the beginning of this series, I didn't like Georgina. I loved Colin from the moment I met him, but Georgina..? She annoyed and aggravated me, and I knew that if I met a girl like her in "real life" I most likely wouldn't choose her as a friend or even want to be around her at all. But all the while, I also felt that there was more to her than what the readers had, so far, been allowed to see. And I knew that the author was going to do her best to make me like this character in a later book. The question was: will she actually succeed in making me like Georgina? The answer is: Yes. It did take a little while... but yes, I do like her very much now.
The beginning of this book overlaps the previous book, A Noble Masquerade. I can understand how some readers might not like that, but I really enjoyed seeing some of the situations from the perspectives of other characters. I especially enjoyed reading some of the scenes (the Ryland/Colin scenes in particular) from Colin's pov. Talk about getting a good laugh out of a book! :D Also, if it had been a while since I'd read the first book and maybe I didn't remember it super clearly (this wasn't the case for me, but if it had been... ;P ), this would have provided a nice refresher of previous events.
May I just say (again) that I really loved Colin? I mean, how could you not like this guy?? I like the way he very slowly wades into discovering who Georgina is beneath the façade. He thinks he know everything there is to know about her. He thinks he knows exactly who and what she is. But he's wrong. (No big spoiler there, right?) He doesn't want to be around her, he doesn't want to get to know her any better, and he certainly doesn't want to like her! But he gets dragged into it... ;) And I just have to say that I thought fairly early on that Trent was rooting for Colin all along, hoping that something would develop between him and Georgina. That thought had me chuckling quite a bit. ;) One thing I truly loved about Colin was how he was constantly encouraging Georgina to tell the truth and trust her family. He accepted her so called "flaws" and that was such a huge thing for her: she needed to know that people could accept her as she was.
Georgina..... What can I say about this girl without giving anything away? Her secret is one that... Well, I'd never really considered how such a thing would have affected a lady in her position. It would have been a very difficult thing for anyone, but so much more for her-- or for anyone in "high society", really. After a while, I could see why she had become the way she was and why she had built such a high, defensive wall around herself. Seeing those walls come down and not only seeing her true self revealed, but seeing her true self change as well-- that's what made me like her. Oh, and her relationship with Harriette... There is really too much to say about that and I don't want to reveal any spoilers, but that was one of my favorite things about this book.
Well, I've not said everything I wanted to, but this review is getting quite long already so I'll try to wrap it up right quick.
I love Kristi Ann Hunter's writing style. She pulls me into her stories and I find myself wanting to just sit and read until I reach the end-- and then pick up the next book and read some more! I can't wait to read more in this series! And I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
From the beginning of this series, I didn't like Georgina. I loved Colin from the moment I met him, but Georgina..? She annoyed and aggravated me, and I knew that if I met a girl like her in "real life" I most likely wouldn't choose her as a friend or even want to be around her at all. But all the while, I also felt that there was more to her than what the readers had, so far, been allowed to see. And I knew that the author was going to do her best to make me like this character in a later book. The question was: will she actually succeed in making me like Georgina? The answer is: Yes. It did take a little while... but yes, I do like her very much now.
The beginning of this book overlaps the previous book, A Noble Masquerade. I can understand how some readers might not like that, but I really enjoyed seeing some of the situations from the perspectives of other characters. I especially enjoyed reading some of the scenes (the Ryland/Colin scenes in particular) from Colin's pov. Talk about getting a good laugh out of a book! :D Also, if it had been a while since I'd read the first book and maybe I didn't remember it super clearly (this wasn't the case for me, but if it had been... ;P ), this would have provided a nice refresher of previous events.
May I just say (again) that I really loved Colin? I mean, how could you not like this guy?? I like the way he very slowly wades into discovering who Georgina is beneath the façade. He thinks he know everything there is to know about her. He thinks he knows exactly who and what she is. But he's wrong. (No big spoiler there, right?) He doesn't want to be around her, he doesn't want to get to know her any better, and he certainly doesn't want to like her! But he gets dragged into it... ;) And I just have to say that I thought fairly early on that Trent was rooting for Colin all along, hoping that something would develop between him and Georgina. That thought had me chuckling quite a bit. ;) One thing I truly loved about Colin was how he was constantly encouraging Georgina to tell the truth and trust her family. He accepted her so called "flaws" and that was such a huge thing for her: she needed to know that people could accept her as she was.
Georgina..... What can I say about this girl without giving anything away? Her secret is one that... Well, I'd never really considered how such a thing would have affected a lady in her position. It would have been a very difficult thing for anyone, but so much more for her-- or for anyone in "high society", really. After a while, I could see why she had become the way she was and why she had built such a high, defensive wall around herself. Seeing those walls come down and not only seeing her true self revealed, but seeing her true self change as well-- that's what made me like her. Oh, and her relationship with Harriette... There is really too much to say about that and I don't want to reveal any spoilers, but that was one of my favorite things about this book.
Well, I've not said everything I wanted to, but this review is getting quite long already so I'll try to wrap it up right quick.
I love Kristi Ann Hunter's writing style. She pulls me into her stories and I find myself wanting to just sit and read until I reach the end-- and then pick up the next book and read some more! I can't wait to read more in this series! And I'll definitely be keeping my eye out for more books from this author.
I received a free copy of this book through the Bethany House Blogger Review Program in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 27, 2016
Lady Georgina Hawthorne plans to marry well. She wants a man with a title. She has planned her debut down to the last detail, and is determined to be the belle of the season. Colin McCrae has money and business connections, but no title. Due to his powerful connections, he is invited everywhere. The few encounters that he has had with Lady Georgina, he finds her shallow and selfish. But Lady Georgina has a secret. One that Colin is too close to discovering. Yet despite their mutual dislike of each other, there is an attraction that neither one is ready to admit. Will love be sacrificed to make dreams come true?
When I read the first book in this series last fall, I absolutely adored it. I loved the relationships between the Hawthorne siblings. So I was thrilled to be able to read this book. It's been on my radar since I finished the first one.
This book starts before the end of the first one, but several of the scenes are from a different perspective. I loved Colin. I thought he was classy and had a sense of humor. I didn't like Georgina, though she did grow on me. I found Georgina to be spoiled, selfish, and shallow. I'll admit that by the end of the book, I had come to not only feel bad for her, but to like her as well.
I loved the Hawthorne siblings. I can't wait to see them again.
I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter
Rating - 4 stars
When I read the first book in this series last fall, I absolutely adored it. I loved the relationships between the Hawthorne siblings. So I was thrilled to be able to read this book. It's been on my radar since I finished the first one.
This book starts before the end of the first one, but several of the scenes are from a different perspective. I loved Colin. I thought he was classy and had a sense of humor. I didn't like Georgina, though she did grow on me. I found Georgina to be spoiled, selfish, and shallow. I'll admit that by the end of the book, I had come to not only feel bad for her, but to like her as well.
I loved the Hawthorne siblings. I can't wait to see them again.
I received this book for free from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of historical fiction, Jody Hedlund, Karen Witemeyer, Kristi Ann Hunter
Rating - 4 stars
August 29, 2020
This sequel has great characters including a very flawed heroine, interesting storyline, & plenty of light hearted humor! I loved Collin! He is a very noble hero that sees through Lady Georgina’s vanity and seemingly shallow character. I really appreciated the sweet epilogue. A joy to read!
October 22, 2017
Lovely Regency novel!
In several ways Georgina reminded me of Scarlett O'Hara from Gone With The Wind. Like Scarlett, Georgina was so focused on finding the "right" match that she missed the better one in front of her.
Colin was a wonderful main male character: honorable and strong in his convictions.
I loved how the author wove in a little known condition to the story. It was fun to be a part of Georgina's first (and last) season. I look forward to the next in this series.
In several ways Georgina reminded me of Scarlett O'Hara from Gone With The Wind. Like Scarlett, Georgina was so focused on finding the "right" match that she missed the better one in front of her.
Colin was a wonderful main male character: honorable and strong in his convictions.
I loved how the author wove in a little known condition to the story. It was fun to be a part of Georgina's first (and last) season. I look forward to the next in this series.
February 25, 2021
I loved how this book overlapped with the first in time line. Such a good regency!
2nd read: I'm binging her books in order and I adore how this one overlaps with the first. I also love how the author handles the heroine's secret. It becomes a powerful motivator and explanation for her behavior.
2nd read: I'm binging her books in order and I adore how this one overlaps with the first. I also love how the author handles the heroine's secret. It becomes a powerful motivator and explanation for her behavior.
December 16, 2017
An Elegant Façade is the sequel to A Noble Masquerade and a great continuation of the series. It made me see the heroine (who is the sister to the lead character in book one) in a different light. I wasn't a fan of Georgina in book one, but after reading this story I actually like her now...and I can't believe I didn't guess her secret in the first book!
I loved how An Elegant Facade didn't start right where the first book ended, but instead from earlier in the book and we got to see some of the things that had happened in A Noble Masquerade from Georgina's perspective (if you've read some of Sarah Sundin's books, it's kind of like that). You would think that would be boring, but it actually was quite interesting! I also loved the hero and seeing things from his POV.
All in all, I loved An Elegant Façade and, while I liked book one a bit more than this one, it was still a great read. I am eager to pick up the next one.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I loved how An Elegant Facade didn't start right where the first book ended, but instead from earlier in the book and we got to see some of the things that had happened in A Noble Masquerade from Georgina's perspective (if you've read some of Sarah Sundin's books, it's kind of like that). You would think that would be boring, but it actually was quite interesting! I also loved the hero and seeing things from his POV.
All in all, I loved An Elegant Façade and, while I liked book one a bit more than this one, it was still a great read. I am eager to pick up the next one.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
January 14, 2018
I started the book with a few misgivings because I wasn't sure how a book with spoiled and conniving Georgina as the protagonist was going to turn out. Plus, how could the next book even top A Noble Masquerade?
Well, I loved it almost as much! This book reveals Georgina’s struggles and makes you see her in a different light. While you can't excuse some of her actions, her change of heart as the story goes on is genuine. I finished this book thinking Georgina was pretty awesome once she put her guard down.
I really liked Colin in the first book so I'm glad he got his own book! His warmth and good-natured humour was the perfect match against Georgina’s iciness. He was also so understanding- the scene where he discovered Georgina’s secret made me want to give him a big hug!
The first half of the book included a lot of scenes from the previous book in the series so it was sometimes repetitive, but I liked getting Colin’s and Georgina’s perspectives of events and the dialogue between them that wasn't in the first book. I did like the second half of the book better though.
An Elegant Facade was a superb follow-up to A Noble Masquerade! Ready for book 3!
Well, I loved it almost as much! This book reveals Georgina’s struggles and makes you see her in a different light. While you can't excuse some of her actions, her change of heart as the story goes on is genuine. I finished this book thinking Georgina was pretty awesome once she put her guard down.
I really liked Colin in the first book so I'm glad he got his own book! His warmth and good-natured humour was the perfect match against Georgina’s iciness. He was also so understanding- the scene where he discovered Georgina’s secret made me want to give him a big hug!
The first half of the book included a lot of scenes from the previous book in the series so it was sometimes repetitive, but I liked getting Colin’s and Georgina’s perspectives of events and the dialogue between them that wasn't in the first book. I did like the second half of the book better though.
An Elegant Facade was a superb follow-up to A Noble Masquerade! Ready for book 3!
October 18, 2017
Book 2 of the Hawthorne House series once again brings the characters from book 1 together: Miranda, Georgina, Griffith, Duke of Riverton, and Trent along with the spouses of those who had married. This book focuses on Georgina. She is now ready for her debut season and has only one goal in mind: to find the highest ranking member of the "ton" she can catch to marry. She hides a secret that she believes can only be protected by a titled noble.
Georgina puts on airs as she sets herself up for the marriage market that lead many to believe she is snooty, standoffish, and cold. The beginning of the story allows us to see some of the events from book 1 through Georgina's perspective which was definitely a different approach. Georgina starts off as an unlikeable character. She's a schemer looking out only for herself, yet in reality it is all an act in order to cover her secret. But as her plans begin to fail and a friend of her brothers, Colin, a gentleman with wealth but no title, began to speak the truth to her even after he discovered her secret she began to change. I especially loved how the author used Colin's voice speaking in Georgina's head to lead her in the right direction and bring about a wonderful transformation. Colin was so sweet and understanding which made him a very likeable hero.
The focus on Georgina's secret (probably dyslexia) was a different and interesting theme. Of course there was no understanding of this learning problem during this time period, and it was assumed that a person suffering from this was just "stupid." I thought the acceptance of "spectacles" by Georgina showed that she really did want to solve this problem.
I ended up liking this book even more than the first and would definitely recommend this book to readers of historical fiction.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "When people were talking about you, they were less likely to talk to you."
"Because no mater what we do, be it good or ill, it goes away and only God is left. And fearing God, following God is the who duty of man. The only thing that remans."
Georgina puts on airs as she sets herself up for the marriage market that lead many to believe she is snooty, standoffish, and cold. The beginning of the story allows us to see some of the events from book 1 through Georgina's perspective which was definitely a different approach. Georgina starts off as an unlikeable character. She's a schemer looking out only for herself, yet in reality it is all an act in order to cover her secret. But as her plans begin to fail and a friend of her brothers, Colin, a gentleman with wealth but no title, began to speak the truth to her even after he discovered her secret she began to change. I especially loved how the author used Colin's voice speaking in Georgina's head to lead her in the right direction and bring about a wonderful transformation. Colin was so sweet and understanding which made him a very likeable hero.
The focus on Georgina's secret (probably dyslexia) was a different and interesting theme. Of course there was no understanding of this learning problem during this time period, and it was assumed that a person suffering from this was just "stupid." I thought the acceptance of "spectacles" by Georgina showed that she really did want to solve this problem.
I ended up liking this book even more than the first and would definitely recommend this book to readers of historical fiction.
FAVORITE QUOTES: "When people were talking about you, they were less likely to talk to you."
"Because no mater what we do, be it good or ill, it goes away and only God is left. And fearing God, following God is the who duty of man. The only thing that remans."
November 12, 2017
It was okay. I thought the characters were pretty decent but I missed having heat with the romance. If you're looking for a clean, sweet romance with Christian undertones to the book, I recommend this to you.
I wasn't much of a fan of Georgina in the beginning of the book but her character got better. She finally got honest with herself on her 'impairment' with the help of Colin and God.
Colin was great, patient and a very honorable man. I'm glad he broke through the shell of the Ice Princess.
I don't think I'll continue with the series. It's not that the writing isn't well done or that the characters don't have depth, I just need a bit more steaminess and heat with my historical romances. :D hahaha
I wasn't much of a fan of Georgina in the beginning of the book but her character got better. She finally got honest with herself on her 'impairment' with the help of Colin and God.
Colin was great, patient and a very honorable man. I'm glad he broke through the shell of the Ice Princess.
I don't think I'll continue with the series. It's not that the writing isn't well done or that the characters don't have depth, I just need a bit more steaminess and heat with my historical romances. :D hahaha
December 4, 2024
Rating: 2.5 Stars.
Steam: 0 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Review to come (probably), just putting my reading list in order
Ps: no smut
Steam: 0 out of 10.
Triggers:
Love Triangle:
Cheating:
HEA:
Review to come (probably), just putting my reading list in order
Ps: no smut
September 7, 2016
Kristi Ann Hunter is an author I am becoming more and more interested in. I loved her novella, I enjoyed her debut, and this book made me even more curious about what she will be writing next.
First: the one thing that bothered me about this book was the overlap of Georgina and Miranda's stories. I get it and I understand what a disadvantage we would have been at if we had not seen how Georgina and Colin responded to the situations that happen in the latter half of A Noble Masquerade, but it was a lot of repeated scenes in the first 15 chapters or so of this book. I wanted new things to happen, and at first I was not getting that. (But I definitely see how it was meant to give us a further understanding of the character we otherwise would have missed).
Second: As soon as we pass into new territory, as far as content, things get super interesting. I was hooked from there! With the reveal of Georgina's secret, she suddenly became a sympathetic character who I was intrigued by. Knowing her struggle and seeing her vulnerability injected her with this humanity we do not see in the beginning, or even in her appearance in the first book of the series.
Third: Colin knowing her secret was the best thing ever! Talk about making the book more interesting. Georgina was terrified of what he might do with that information, and the way he handles the situation is perfect. It also helped develop their relationship and how they interacted with one another on a more personal level than before. I love how he respected her, yet wouldn't let her secret come between them, as far as their relationship, or the potential for one.
So, while the first half of the book had me wanting more, the second half delivered all that I wanted!
First: the one thing that bothered me about this book was the overlap of Georgina and Miranda's stories. I get it and I understand what a disadvantage we would have been at if we had not seen how Georgina and Colin responded to the situations that happen in the latter half of A Noble Masquerade, but it was a lot of repeated scenes in the first 15 chapters or so of this book. I wanted new things to happen, and at first I was not getting that. (But I definitely see how it was meant to give us a further understanding of the character we otherwise would have missed).
Second: As soon as we pass into new territory, as far as content, things get super interesting. I was hooked from there! With the reveal of Georgina's secret, she suddenly became a sympathetic character who I was intrigued by. Knowing her struggle and seeing her vulnerability injected her with this humanity we do not see in the beginning, or even in her appearance in the first book of the series.
Third: Colin knowing her secret was the best thing ever! Talk about making the book more interesting. Georgina was terrified of what he might do with that information, and the way he handles the situation is perfect. It also helped develop their relationship and how they interacted with one another on a more personal level than before. I love how he respected her, yet wouldn't let her secret come between them, as far as their relationship, or the potential for one.
So, while the first half of the book had me wanting more, the second half delivered all that I wanted!
July 14, 2016
An incredibly lovely story beginning with the cover itself, the unique presentation of perspective, and the charming, clever conversations tucked between nearly every page.
Lady Georgina Hawthorne is determined that marriage to the right suitor will guard a lifelong secret, one that even her closest family and friends are totally unaware plagues her conscience. Until Colin McCrae, a dear friend of her brother-in-law, successful but not titled, feasts his eyes upon the beautiful, but rather conceited young debutante. Up until now, no one in Georgina's elite social associations has dared to probe beneath the Georgina's icy emotional veneer. Imagine her utter dismay when the handsome Scottish businessman becomes the obnoxious little voice in her head, that whispers the truth; "You don't have to protect yourself. You are safe."
On most days, Colin McCrae doesn't even want to like Georgina Hawthorne, much less nourish an attraction, but for some reason they continually cross paths. It's obvious to everyone that Colin does not meet her impossible standards for a husband, but neither can he cannot prevent himself from blocking her attempts at foolishness. And then, he sees into her heart, transforming "An Elegant Facade" into the kind of story that pulsates with tender romance while dangling over a precipice of disaster.
Enjoy every minute spent in Kristi Ann Hunter's "Hawthorne House".
Lady Georgina Hawthorne is determined that marriage to the right suitor will guard a lifelong secret, one that even her closest family and friends are totally unaware plagues her conscience. Until Colin McCrae, a dear friend of her brother-in-law, successful but not titled, feasts his eyes upon the beautiful, but rather conceited young debutante. Up until now, no one in Georgina's elite social associations has dared to probe beneath the Georgina's icy emotional veneer. Imagine her utter dismay when the handsome Scottish businessman becomes the obnoxious little voice in her head, that whispers the truth; "You don't have to protect yourself. You are safe."
On most days, Colin McCrae doesn't even want to like Georgina Hawthorne, much less nourish an attraction, but for some reason they continually cross paths. It's obvious to everyone that Colin does not meet her impossible standards for a husband, but neither can he cannot prevent himself from blocking her attempts at foolishness. And then, he sees into her heart, transforming "An Elegant Facade" into the kind of story that pulsates with tender romance while dangling over a precipice of disaster.
Enjoy every minute spent in Kristi Ann Hunter's "Hawthorne House".
July 22, 2016
Let me start by saying that this is my favorite book I have read this year. There is so much that is GREAT about this story, I don’t even know where to begin!
After reading about Georgina in Miranda’s story, A Noble Masquerade, the stage was set. Georgina is exactly the kind of girl you love to hate. While Miranda was soft and kind, her sister, Georgina, is cruel and heartless…or so it would seem. In An Elegant Façade, we learn the reasons behind Georgina’s actions.
I love how the books run parallel to each other. I found myself reading them both side-by-side and enjoying the first all over again. How fun to go back and read the perspective of everyone else watching the hilarity of Miranda and Ryder’s story play out while seamlessly intertwining Georgina and Colin’s. Beautifully done!
Depth is another thing that is not lacking. There are layers to the characters. Yes, it’s light and fun reading, but there are real life things here and they are all beautifully written. You won’t be able to put this one down. Full of witty banter, a strong sense of Regency history and a whole lot of grace. Don’t miss out!
Thank you, so much, for this great read in exchange for my review. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
After reading about Georgina in Miranda’s story, A Noble Masquerade, the stage was set. Georgina is exactly the kind of girl you love to hate. While Miranda was soft and kind, her sister, Georgina, is cruel and heartless…or so it would seem. In An Elegant Façade, we learn the reasons behind Georgina’s actions.
I love how the books run parallel to each other. I found myself reading them both side-by-side and enjoying the first all over again. How fun to go back and read the perspective of everyone else watching the hilarity of Miranda and Ryder’s story play out while seamlessly intertwining Georgina and Colin’s. Beautifully done!
Depth is another thing that is not lacking. There are layers to the characters. Yes, it’s light and fun reading, but there are real life things here and they are all beautifully written. You won’t be able to put this one down. Full of witty banter, a strong sense of Regency history and a whole lot of grace. Don’t miss out!
Thank you, so much, for this great read in exchange for my review. As always, this is my honest opinion. Here’s to many more!!
September 5, 2019
I enjoyed this story, but not as much as the first book, A Noble Masquerade. Where the noble masquerade included some spying and suspense and was at a faster pace, this focused more on character growth and realising who you are/what your worth is based on who God made you and not what society/people think.
I liked Colin from book 1. He was entertaining and I enjoyed his Scottish accent. Georgina had to grow on me. She came across as shallow and after you learn her secret, you feel more compassion for her. I think what she struggled with was during a time where people didn't know how to help since there was a specific standard one had to follow in society.
The narrator again delivered with a great entertaining story.
I liked Colin from book 1. He was entertaining and I enjoyed his Scottish accent. Georgina had to grow on me. She came across as shallow and after you learn her secret, you feel more compassion for her. I think what she struggled with was during a time where people didn't know how to help since there was a specific standard one had to follow in society.
The narrator again delivered with a great entertaining story.
April 1, 2023
There were some great points to enjoy in this book.
The complex sisterly relationship—featuring love, jealousy, and competition—between Georgina and Miranda felt real. It was exciting to see a pair of sisters so well written.
All the ups and downs of the plot lent themselves well to an emotion-filled tale. Because the plot felt more organic and less ridiculous than the previous two books in the series, my emotions stayed engaged throughout the story.
The desire to write well was clear from the opening scene. At that point, I had no clue it would take such a huge role in Georgina’s journey. My writer’s heart latched on to that aspect of this story, and I rather enjoyed Georgina’s struggles even more for her determination to improve her abilities.
One theme stood out strongly to me: Our shortcomings make us none less worthy of God’s love. This theme was beautifully expressed throughout the book, and it felt quite profound.
The complex sisterly relationship—featuring love, jealousy, and competition—between Georgina and Miranda felt real. It was exciting to see a pair of sisters so well written.
All the ups and downs of the plot lent themselves well to an emotion-filled tale. Because the plot felt more organic and less ridiculous than the previous two books in the series, my emotions stayed engaged throughout the story.
The desire to write well was clear from the opening scene. At that point, I had no clue it would take such a huge role in Georgina’s journey. My writer’s heart latched on to that aspect of this story, and I rather enjoyed Georgina’s struggles even more for her determination to improve her abilities.
One theme stood out strongly to me: Our shortcomings make us none less worthy of God’s love. This theme was beautifully expressed throughout the book, and it felt quite profound.
August 6, 2016
Kristi Ann Hunter's novel An Elegant Façade is set during the early 1800's within the borders of beautiful England. Most activity takes place in London, but the characters also travel to other parts of the United Kingdom--including Glasgow, Scotland. This text focuses on the Regency era way of life, which includes all the rules and regulations pertaining to society and a young women making her debut.
Lady Georgina has one purpose in life, and that is to find a husband who will not only grant her station and wealth but also protection. However, she holds a particular secret that only seems to grow worse through the years, and she wonders if she can keep this part of her life hidden any longer. Her family does not even know the burden she has been carrying for so long, but Lady Georgina continues to sacrifice herself, because she knows it is what society deems for her to do. Yet, there will come a time where certain questions will be raised, and Lady Georgina must decide what path she will choose. Will she take the road she always saw herself living, or will life present an opportunity she never wanted?
Colin McCrae is from Scotland, yet he finds himself living and conducting business in London. This is not necessarily by choice, but mostly because ties in his family have ceased to exist. Colin and his father are no longer getting along because of poor choices made regarding the family business; therefore, Colin chooses to make a new life for himself in a different area of the country. London seems like the perfect spot, since so many men need sound business advice while operating their trade in a major city. Colin already has a few friends there, but surprisingly he suddenly becomes very close with the Hawthorne family. Of course, he does not realize how much this one family will turn his life upside down.
This is a wonderful book I wanted to continue to read, because I never wanted the story to end. The characters are so beautifully written and constructed, which allowed me to discover how much more I wanted to know about their journeys beyond the pages of this book. These feelings are the perfect ingredients to proclaim the evidence of a brilliant story. I love reading novels from this time period, and Lady Georgina did not disappoint when it came to representing her era. Her thoughts and actions mimicked the way a proper lady must perform in front of a gentleman during her time period perfectly. Her cunning wit and charm she used to communicate with others was interesting to witness--especially when her thoughts began to slowly change as she transformed with each turn of the page. For the men of this era, it was intriguing to consider the thoughts of certain men in order to understand what they truly thought of their own society--while also discovering the expectations that many men steadfastly held to regarding the women they wanted to marry.
If you love the Regency era and all its historical adventures, I highly recommend reading this book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for my copy.
Lady Georgina has one purpose in life, and that is to find a husband who will not only grant her station and wealth but also protection. However, she holds a particular secret that only seems to grow worse through the years, and she wonders if she can keep this part of her life hidden any longer. Her family does not even know the burden she has been carrying for so long, but Lady Georgina continues to sacrifice herself, because she knows it is what society deems for her to do. Yet, there will come a time where certain questions will be raised, and Lady Georgina must decide what path she will choose. Will she take the road she always saw herself living, or will life present an opportunity she never wanted?
Colin McCrae is from Scotland, yet he finds himself living and conducting business in London. This is not necessarily by choice, but mostly because ties in his family have ceased to exist. Colin and his father are no longer getting along because of poor choices made regarding the family business; therefore, Colin chooses to make a new life for himself in a different area of the country. London seems like the perfect spot, since so many men need sound business advice while operating their trade in a major city. Colin already has a few friends there, but surprisingly he suddenly becomes very close with the Hawthorne family. Of course, he does not realize how much this one family will turn his life upside down.
This is a wonderful book I wanted to continue to read, because I never wanted the story to end. The characters are so beautifully written and constructed, which allowed me to discover how much more I wanted to know about their journeys beyond the pages of this book. These feelings are the perfect ingredients to proclaim the evidence of a brilliant story. I love reading novels from this time period, and Lady Georgina did not disappoint when it came to representing her era. Her thoughts and actions mimicked the way a proper lady must perform in front of a gentleman during her time period perfectly. Her cunning wit and charm she used to communicate with others was interesting to witness--especially when her thoughts began to slowly change as she transformed with each turn of the page. For the men of this era, it was intriguing to consider the thoughts of certain men in order to understand what they truly thought of their own society--while also discovering the expectations that many men steadfastly held to regarding the women they wanted to marry.
If you love the Regency era and all its historical adventures, I highly recommend reading this book.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to Bethany House Publishers for my copy.
May 15, 2018
An Elegant Facade by Kristi Ann Hunter
Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1800
Location: Hertfordshire, England
Characters:
Lady Georgina Hawthorne: Main character
Lady Miranda: Georgina’s older sister
Lord Trent: Georgina’s brother
Lord Griffith: Georgina’s eldest brother, Duke of Riverton
Colin McCrae: Non-titled businessman, friend of Georgina’s brothers
Ryland: Duke of Marshington, spy for the crown
Harriette: Georgina’s maid and keeper of her secret
At first I was unhappy with this story being a retelling of the prior book A Noble Masquerade, this time told from Georgina’s point of view. It's nearly half-way through the book before a completely new section starts. Up to this point you only see a self-serving, conniving debutant. But still, you know there’s something wrong. Somehow there’s a facade she’s carefully presenting, skillfully hiding truth. However, that truth isn't clarified for a very long time. But it’s a good one.
Georgina has plans of marrying a titled duke or earl for protection against that truth. Anyone low on her scale, such as Colin, isn’t a consideration, no matter how handsome, no matter how wealthy, no matter how well he fits into their society, nor who he’s friends with. He’s a pariah in her estimation. And dancing with him at her first ball? Something she wants to forget, and hopefully everyone at the ball would too.
Georgina is a young woman Colin’s familiar with by reputation. She’s shallow, vain and only hunting for a title. She’s someone he’d never consider, no matter her beauty, her fascination, nor her family connections. She’s also well above his status. Off limits and off his radar. Period.
But, as it goes, due to a tragedy and other incidents he stumbles into, he is helpful, understanding, and most of all accepting of the one thing Georgina has told no one but her maid, Harriette.
I rather liked this story. It must have been risky for the author to take her first book in this series and remake it into another story, using much of the same wording, but from a different point of view. However, I think she succeeded! I rather enjoyed it... almost as much as the first. ButA Noble Masquerade was funny because of Georgina's sister, Miranda. Fun and unintentionally hysterical. Georgina, on the other hand, is not fun at all.
I especially liked the character, Colin. He found humor in so much, and was a man of faith. I loved that he grew into his appreciation of Georgina, and could even see a future with her, but backed off because to be bound to an unbeliever in marriage is not something he could or would do. I love that the author had the integrity to include that as an important issue.
The storyline of Georgina’s secret was well done. I had an inkling of what it was, but not for well over 75% of the book. Until that point I had no sympathy for her at all, I didn’t even like her.
The romance on Colin’s part was sweet, with an outcome the reader will enjoy.
Good book!
Genre: Historical Fiction, Christian Romance
Format: Kindle
Timeframe: 1800
Location: Hertfordshire, England
Characters:
Lady Georgina Hawthorne: Main character
Lady Miranda: Georgina’s older sister
Lord Trent: Georgina’s brother
Lord Griffith: Georgina’s eldest brother, Duke of Riverton
Colin McCrae: Non-titled businessman, friend of Georgina’s brothers
Ryland: Duke of Marshington, spy for the crown
Harriette: Georgina’s maid and keeper of her secret
At first I was unhappy with this story being a retelling of the prior book A Noble Masquerade, this time told from Georgina’s point of view. It's nearly half-way through the book before a completely new section starts. Up to this point you only see a self-serving, conniving debutant. But still, you know there’s something wrong. Somehow there’s a facade she’s carefully presenting, skillfully hiding truth. However, that truth isn't clarified for a very long time. But it’s a good one.
Georgina has plans of marrying a titled duke or earl for protection against that truth. Anyone low on her scale, such as Colin, isn’t a consideration, no matter how handsome, no matter how wealthy, no matter how well he fits into their society, nor who he’s friends with. He’s a pariah in her estimation. And dancing with him at her first ball? Something she wants to forget, and hopefully everyone at the ball would too.
Georgina is a young woman Colin’s familiar with by reputation. She’s shallow, vain and only hunting for a title. She’s someone he’d never consider, no matter her beauty, her fascination, nor her family connections. She’s also well above his status. Off limits and off his radar. Period.
But, as it goes, due to a tragedy and other incidents he stumbles into, he is helpful, understanding, and most of all accepting of the one thing Georgina has told no one but her maid, Harriette.
I rather liked this story. It must have been risky for the author to take her first book in this series and remake it into another story, using much of the same wording, but from a different point of view. However, I think she succeeded! I rather enjoyed it... almost as much as the first. ButA Noble Masquerade was funny because of Georgina's sister, Miranda. Fun and unintentionally hysterical. Georgina, on the other hand, is not fun at all.
I especially liked the character, Colin. He found humor in so much, and was a man of faith. I loved that he grew into his appreciation of Georgina, and could even see a future with her, but backed off because to be bound to an unbeliever in marriage is not something he could or would do. I love that the author had the integrity to include that as an important issue.
The storyline of Georgina’s secret was well done. I had an inkling of what it was, but not for well over 75% of the book. Until that point I had no sympathy for her at all, I didn’t even like her.
The romance on Colin’s part was sweet, with an outcome the reader will enjoy.
Good book!
July 19, 2016
An Elegant Façade is the second book in Kristi Ann Hunter’s Hawthorne House series, coming after A Noble Masquerade. I have been a huge fan of Kristi Ann’s ever since I first read her prequel to this series—A Lady of Esteem—a while back, so I was super excited for this book. By the time I first read the synopsis months ago, I was hooked, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this novel. When I finally was able to read it, I completely and utterly devoured it, and I’m already dying to read it again.
Lady Georgina Hawthorne is such a complex character. Although I’m not very fond of her public persona, I absolutely love who she is underneath, and I am very impressed with how much of a genius she is to have perfected the shallow side of herself she shows to the public. She impresses me to no end, and I absolutely loved getting to know the real her as the book went on. Plus, I cannot even describe to you how much I love her relationship, or should I say non-relationship based on much of the book, with Colin McCrae.
Colin McCrae is by far one of my favorite heroes of all time. And he definitely deserves that title after all that he does for Georgina in this book. I don’t want to spoil anything for you, but he kind of reminds me of Mr. Darcy in a way, which is definitely another plus in his column. It just helped me to love him all the more, though that wasn’t difficult because he is most certainly a very loveable character. He is so brave, so smart, and so kind and compassionate, that I couldn’t help but love him and know that he was perfect for Georgina.
All in all, I really, really loved this book, and I absolutely cannot wait for the next one! It’s about Lord Trent, the younger of Georgina’s two brothers, and I’m so glad it is! I already love him, and I’ve been dying for his story, so I’m so glad it’s coming out in January, though that seems so far away! Anyway, I cannot imagine giving An Elegant Façade anything other than all five bookshelves, and it definitely has a place on my all-time favorites list!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher in exchange for only my honest review.
(This review is from my blog, spreadinghisgrace.blogspot.com)
Lady Georgina Hawthorne is such a complex character. Although I’m not very fond of her public persona, I absolutely love who she is underneath, and I am very impressed with how much of a genius she is to have perfected the shallow side of herself she shows to the public. She impresses me to no end, and I absolutely loved getting to know the real her as the book went on. Plus, I cannot even describe to you how much I love her relationship, or should I say non-relationship based on much of the book, with Colin McCrae.
Colin McCrae is by far one of my favorite heroes of all time. And he definitely deserves that title after all that he does for Georgina in this book. I don’t want to spoil anything for you, but he kind of reminds me of Mr. Darcy in a way, which is definitely another plus in his column. It just helped me to love him all the more, though that wasn’t difficult because he is most certainly a very loveable character. He is so brave, so smart, and so kind and compassionate, that I couldn’t help but love him and know that he was perfect for Georgina.
All in all, I really, really loved this book, and I absolutely cannot wait for the next one! It’s about Lord Trent, the younger of Georgina’s two brothers, and I’m so glad it is! I already love him, and I’ve been dying for his story, so I’m so glad it’s coming out in January, though that seems so far away! Anyway, I cannot imagine giving An Elegant Façade anything other than all five bookshelves, and it definitely has a place on my all-time favorites list!
I received a copy of this book from the author and publisher in exchange for only my honest review.
(This review is from my blog, spreadinghisgrace.blogspot.com)
July 27, 2016
First of all: look at that cover! It's absolutely beautiful! A great match for the story, no doubt.
Moreover, I loved the book. I couldn't stop reading. It helped a lot that I was in the mood of a story like this one: so lovely! It was great for me to visit the whole London society with its Season again - always a good place for a girl to be.
Colin and Georgina are just perfect for each other! I enjoyed them very much, all their dialogues and personalities. So good!
Georgina's secret was very original. I hadn't read a book that treated this issue before, and I certainly didn't expect to see it in historical fiction, but it was great.
Also, there was this great way of presenting faith in Jesus. It didn't look forced, it seemed natural for the story. I liked that.
Characters in general are easy to identify with. I wasn't very engaged with the Duke, though. We didn't get to see him very much, but I think that would change a lot in Trent's book (next one in the series).
The author promised I would understand it all even if I hadn't read the first book, and she didn't disappoint me. Even though she said the writing process was hard for her because this story overlaps the previous one at some points, I think she did an awesome job.
I'm not planning to read Miranda's story because I didn't like her very much (sorry), but I'm looking forward to Trent's. I have the feeling that this series won't let me go so easily, and I'm ok with that ;)
**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
Moreover, I loved the book. I couldn't stop reading. It helped a lot that I was in the mood of a story like this one: so lovely! It was great for me to visit the whole London society with its Season again - always a good place for a girl to be.
Colin and Georgina are just perfect for each other! I enjoyed them very much, all their dialogues and personalities. So good!
Georgina's secret was very original. I hadn't read a book that treated this issue before, and I certainly didn't expect to see it in historical fiction, but it was great.
Also, there was this great way of presenting faith in Jesus. It didn't look forced, it seemed natural for the story. I liked that.
Characters in general are easy to identify with. I wasn't very engaged with the Duke, though. We didn't get to see him very much, but I think that would change a lot in Trent's book (next one in the series).
The author promised I would understand it all even if I hadn't read the first book, and she didn't disappoint me. Even though she said the writing process was hard for her because this story overlaps the previous one at some points, I think she did an awesome job.
I'm not planning to read Miranda's story because I didn't like her very much (sorry), but I'm looking forward to Trent's. I have the feeling that this series won't let me go so easily, and I'm ok with that ;)
**I received a copy of this book from Bethany House through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
July 29, 2016
This was a very clever and intertwined book. I haven't read the other books by this author yet, but was able to enjoy this as a stand-alone.
In some aspects, the writing seemed a little amateur (repeating similar phrases often within a paragraph), but the plot line was so rich that it was more of an afterthought about the writing.
At first, I thought Georgina was just a snob. However, realizing that she had a reason for acting the way she did -- and a secret she desperately wanted to hide from society -- made her endearing.
Colin was amazing. In hindsight, it's easy to think of him as too perfect, but his relationship with his family definitely showed him as imperfect. I really, really liked how Colin's acceptance helped Georgina to realize God's acceptance.
That being said, the first 3/4 of this book didn't impress me as a Christian book. But there was a pretty strong spiritual lesson towards the end. It was very neat to see how the author tied it all together. I loved one of the character's hunger and thirst for the Scripture!
There were a few romantic scenes, a kiss, etc. I can't say it was the main thrust of the book (or maybe it was because I was more intrigued by Georgina's problem that I skimmed over the romance." ;)), but it was obviously in there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book ... and think I found a new favorite author. Looking forward to reading more!
Favorite quote:
"I think, if this is going to mean anything, He's going to have to be my God. If He wants me to ... to change, then He's going to have to speak to me Himself."
*I received this book in exchange of my honest review from Bethany House*
In some aspects, the writing seemed a little amateur (repeating similar phrases often within a paragraph), but the plot line was so rich that it was more of an afterthought about the writing.
At first, I thought Georgina was just a snob. However, realizing that she had a reason for acting the way she did -- and a secret she desperately wanted to hide from society -- made her endearing.
Colin was amazing. In hindsight, it's easy to think of him as too perfect, but his relationship with his family definitely showed him as imperfect. I really, really liked how Colin's acceptance helped Georgina to realize God's acceptance.
That being said, the first 3/4 of this book didn't impress me as a Christian book. But there was a pretty strong spiritual lesson towards the end. It was very neat to see how the author tied it all together. I loved one of the character's hunger and thirst for the Scripture!
There were a few romantic scenes, a kiss, etc. I can't say it was the main thrust of the book (or maybe it was because I was more intrigued by Georgina's problem that I skimmed over the romance." ;)), but it was obviously in there.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book ... and think I found a new favorite author. Looking forward to reading more!
Favorite quote:
"I think, if this is going to mean anything, He's going to have to be my God. If He wants me to ... to change, then He's going to have to speak to me Himself."
*I received this book in exchange of my honest review from Bethany House*
September 7, 2016
I enjoyed the second Hawthorne House book. After reading A Lady of Esteem and An Elegant Masquerade, I abundantly disliked Georgiana Hawthorne. Reading her story and the secret she struggled with was enlightening. It goes to remind you that you don't know everyone's story or the reason they are the way they are. I enjoyed seeing how learning about God impacted Georgiana. Plus the romance between her and Colin had great laugh-out-loud moments.
February 21, 2020
Finally getting around to the rest of this series! I loved seeing the change take place in a character whose unrealistic expectations for herself are relatable, followed by the poignant reminder that God loves and accepts us as we are - He made us that way!
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